PATIENT CAREGIVER

Job Description

The Patient Caregiver functions under the direction of a licensed professional nurse. The patient caregiver is responsible for assisting with patient care needs and also maintaining continuous observation of patients in order to keep the patient from harm.

Responsibilities

Assist patients with personal care (washing hands/face, oral care, bathing), including dressing, mobility, toileting, personal hygiene, eating under the discretion of the nurse

Report to nursing staff care activities performed

Maintain open communication between nursing staff regarding patient's medical and emotional condition

Report any changes in patient's health status

Ensure patient safety

Accompanies patient for clinical tests and procedures when off the unit

Actively participates in required staff meetings and in-services

The patient sitter may assist assist patients with mobility on the unit, around the room and to and from the bathroom under the discretion of the nurse

The patient sitter may assist the nurse or CNA in ambulating the patient about the room, on the unit or to and from the bathroom if the patient requires a person assist. This will also be done under the discretion of the nurse

Communicates regularly with the RN assigned to the patient

Communicates well with patient and family and avoids topics that could upset them

Demonstrates ability to work collaboratively with all members of the healthcare team

Displays and promotes a positive public image and approach to staff physician patient family and public

Does not leave the patient at any time without RN approval and relief

Is flexible with work schedule and helps cover sitter needs

Qualifications

Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Experience: Previous experience as a patient caregiver or other hospital related job experience.

Required Certification & Licensures: American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED certification within 90 days of hire.

Effective April 1, 2024, candidates seeking employment in this role at Centra must possess a valid and current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS Provider or AHA BLS Instructor) course completion card. Proof of certification will be mandatory prior to commencing employment. Both AHA and RQI cards are acceptable forms of certification.